Finca Santa Elisa Pachup

Finca Santa Elisa Pachup is a sprawling coffee estate situated in the Acatenango region of Guatemala, specifically positioned on the western slopes of the Acatenango and Fuego volcanoes. The farm encompasses a total of 506 hectares, with 360 hectares dedicated to coffee cultivation. Its proximity to the Fuego volcano—one of the most active in the world—defines both the farm's dramatic, mineral-rich terroir and the challenging, high-stakes environment in which its coffee is produced. The estate is a primary source of employment and economic stability for the nearby town of San Pedro Yepocapa.

The history of the farm is marked by a dramatic turnaround. As recently as 2017, the estate faced significant operational difficulties, with production levels dropping to a mere 700 quintales of coffee cherries. This period of decline threatened the farm's viability and its role in the local economy. However, through a period of intensive refurbishment and the implementation of forward-thinking management strategies, the estate successfully revitalized its operations. Today, production has increased significantly, reaching approximately 34,000 quintales.

Finca Santa Elisa Pachup is known for its diverse range of coffee varieties, which are often processed using the traditional washed method. Depending on the specific lot and harvest, the farm has been documented producing varieties such as Geisha, Catuai, Bourbon, and H1 (Centroamericano). These coffees are typically grown at altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 1,700 meters above sea level, benefiting from the fertile volcanic soil that characterizes the Acatenango region.

The farm's output is highly regarded for its clarity and aromatic complexity, with tasting notes often highlighting floral, fruity, and sweet profiles such as peach, lemon verbena, toffee, and red apple. Because of its scale and the recent improvements in quality control, the estate has become a notable name for specialty roasters seeking consistent, high-quality lots from Guatemala. The transition from a struggling estate to a productive, quality-driven operation has made it a case study in agricultural recovery.

For the drinker, coffee from Finca Santa Elisa Pachup represents the unique intersection of volcanic terroir and modern estate management. The mineral intensity provided by the volcanic landscape is balanced by the careful processing techniques employed at the farm. Whether it is a delicate, light-roasted Geisha or a balanced, medium-roasted H1, the coffee reflects the specific microclimate of the Acatenango valley.

Today, the farm stands as a testament to the impact of investment and management in the specialty coffee sector. By focusing on infrastructure and agricultural health, the producers have managed to secure the farm's future while maintaining its status as a cornerstone of the San Pedro Yepocapa region. It remains a significant example of how large-scale estates in Guatemala are adapting to the demands of the modern specialty market.